She Wore the Team Mascot Costume to Pay for College — Then the Star Quarterback Left His Cheerleader Girlfriend for Her
Chapter 9
Emily’s financial situation became worse.
Her mother needed help paying medical bills back home.
Emily picked up extra shifts.
Her grades started slipping.
Jackson noticed.
“You’re exhausted.”
“I’m fine.”
“You aren’t.”
“I can handle it.”
He sighed.
“Let me help.”
“No.”
“Why?”
“Because I don’t want to owe you.”
His expression changed.
“You don’t owe me anything.”
“I know.”
“Then why are you pushing me away?”
“Because I don’t want you to rescue me.”
He thought for a moment.
Then nodded.
“Okay.”
She was surprised.
He didn’t argue.
Instead, he helped her find an additional scholarship program through the university.
He didn’t tell the committee who she was.
Didn’t use his father’s influence.
Didn’t tell anyone.
Emily got the scholarship on her own merits.
She stared at the letter.
“You did this?”
“I found it.”
“You didn’t recommend me?”
“No.”
She smiled.
“Thank you.”
He looked at her.
“You never needed rescuing.”
She stepped closer.
“What did I need?”
“Someone to believe you could do it.”
Her eyes filled with tears.
She hugged him.
For the first time, Jackson held her without worrying who might see.
